The South-West leadership of the African Democratic Congress has declared its support for the party’s National Secretary, Rauf Aregbesola, rejecting calls for his removal and describing the allegations against him as unfounded.
The position was made known after a meeting of the party’s recognised national and zonal officers led by the National Vice Chairman (South-West), Akinbowale Omole. The leaders accused those behind the petition of attempting to mislead party members and the public.
According to the leadership, the petition was submitted by individuals who do not represent the recognised South-West structure of the ADC. It also alleged that the petitioners had previously challenged the party in court after refusing reconciliation efforts.
While defending Aregbesola, the zonal leadership explained that the National Secretary does not have the authority to determine candidates for elections. It said the National Executive Committee is responsible for approving primary election outcomes before candidates’ names are forwarded to the Independent National Electoral Commission.
The leaders insisted that the accusations ignored the constitutional responsibilities of the National Secretary, whose role is to implement decisions taken by the party’s highest organs rather than independently create party structures or influence primary elections.
The South-West chapter further argued that those accusing Aregbesola were themselves responsible for violating the party’s constitution during previous congresses and primary elections, claiming they were now blaming him for actions they committed.
It reaffirmed that Omole remains the legitimate South-West leader of the party and warned individuals claiming to represent the zone without authorisation to stop doing so, saying disciplinary steps could follow if the actions persist.
The development reflects the continuing internal disagreements within the ADC as the party prepares for the 2027 general elections, despite efforts by the national leadership to strengthen unity after recent legal disputes.
